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Teaching English as a Second Language

Q: What does an ESL teacher do?

A: An ESL teacher works with non-native speakers of English and helps them develop
social and academic language skills. In addition, ESL teachers frequently are cultural
ambassadors and even teachers of content areas (math, science, geography, social studies,
etc.)

Q: Where do ESL teachers work?

A. ESL teachers work in elementary and secondary schools, community colleges, adult
education programs, colleges and universities, private language institutes, and private
businesses. These are just some of the possibilities that ESL teachers might have
in the United States and abroad.

Q: Is it hard to get a job as an ESL teacher?

A: That all depends on where you want to work. If you are interested in teaching in
public schools, there are many opportunities. In private language institutes in the
United States, there will probably be fewer jobs. If one wishes to teach abroad, there
are plentiful opportunities in various parts of Asia, Latin America, Africa and Eastern
Europe.

Q: I don't know another language. Can I still teach ESL?

A: Yes. One need not be like a native speaker of another language in order to be a
successful ESL teacher. However, the more you know, the more able you will be able
to communicate with students and their parents. Likewise, you will have more insight
into the various cultures from which they hail. Finally, learning a second language
gives you much credibility in the eyes of your students because they know that you
understand how they feel.

Q: I'm interested in teaching ESL. Do you offer an ESL program at WKU?

A: Yes. We have a 16-hour program leading to an ESL endorsement at WKU. This endorsement
allows one to teach ESL in Kentucky public schools. Coursework leading to the endorsement
differs for undergraduate and graduate students. More information is found below.

Q: I'm interested. How do I apply?

A: Undergraduate students in good standing should contact Dr. Poole for advising.
Graduate students should contact the Graduate College to learn more about entrance
requirements.

Q: I'd like to apply; however, I work all day and live two hours away from Bowling
Green. Is there anything I can do?

A: Fortunately, our classes are offered either on-line or in the evening. This makes
it convenient for those who, for one reason or another, are not able to physically
regularly attend daytime classes.

Q: I don't want to teach ESL, but I would like to take some coursework. Can I sign
up for a class?

A: If you have been admitted to the university, yes, you may enroll in coursework.
In fact, many people who deal with non-native speakers of English can benefit by knowing
more about such an already large and growing segment of the American population. Additionally,
those who are current or aspiring foreign language teachers find our courses beneficial.

Q: If I'm not planning to teach in public school, do I still need to obtain a state
teaching certificate?

No, those students not wishing to teach in public schools do not need a state teaching
certificate. Such students generally teach in intensive English programs, community
colleges, and institutions abroad. WKU offers a Graduate Certificate in TESOL for
students interested in these options. See below for more information.